Gypsy Moth found in Butte County

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Gridley Herald - Gridley, CA

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Posted Jul. 19, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Posted Jul. 19, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Oroville, CA

Two confirmed gypsy moths were found this week in the Magalia region of Butte County, located northeast of Paradise, California.
The two gypsy moths were found in pest detection traps during routine pest detection operations conducted by county agricultural biologists. In response to these finds, 125 detection traps will be placed in the immediate vicinity to further check for additional moths. There are plans to survey this fall for gypsy moth cocoons and egg masses.
The gypsy moth is a serious pest of trees and shrubs, preferred hosts include oak, apple, alder, aspen, willow and birch. It will also feed on redwoods, western red cedar, Douglas fir and many others. The gypsy moth is originally from Europe and can potentially flourish here because they have no natural enemies in California.
This pest is established on the east coast of the United States and can be easily transported on plants, barbeques, outdoor furniture, automobiles, trailers, campers, etc. The moth prefers to lay its eggs in concealed areas, such as the underside of vehicles or in a swing set pole.
The pest detection trapping program will continue thoughout the rest of the summer. The public’s continued cooperation is appreciated as biologists place additional traps and survey potential gypsy moth find areas.